Whitsunday Coast Airport's new departure lounge officially open for business

Mayor Jenny Whitney said that the recently completed expansion project was the latest delivery on a comprehensive capital works schedule which has seen the Whitsunday Regional Council inconjunction with the State Government of Queensland invest more than $14M in the airport'simprovement.

"Continued and sustained growth in passenger numbers has meant capacity was at a premiumand this expansion was well needed,

"The newly upgraded passenger departure lounge now accommodates an additional 100passengers, bringing the total capacity seated and unseated in our indoor and outdoor areas to400,

"With growth forecast to continue at a double digit rate due to expanded flight schedules andincreases in the Sydney services through Tiger Air, the potential of the Whitsunday Coast Airport to drive economic and tourism growth is well and truly being realised." she said.

Mayor Whitney commended the hard work and professionalism of the departure lounge expansion project team saying the expansion was run smoothly, with minimal disruption and to a tight timeframe.

“Thanks must also go to our airline partners, ground handlers, transport providers and airport staff for their patience as these works were carried out".

Additional plans for the upgrade of the Whitsunday Coast Airport this year include an expansion of the ground service equipment storage and staging area and the delivery

"Work to improve the capabilities of the Whitsunday Coast Airport is continually being carried out, the results of which we see here today," Mayor Whitney said.

Council’s expression of interest process for a joint venture partnership to develop and operate the Whitsunday Coast Airport with Council continues to gain momentum.

A fully redeveloped Whitsunday Coast Airport will deliver jobs and economic development across our region and help to diversify our economy.

"Fulfilling the Whitsunday Coast Airport Master Plan will create jobs and broaden our economy. It’s an investment that will ensure our region is primed for take-off.”